FAQ

Or, “Fairly Answerable Queries”.

What is rb-appscript?

It’s an extension to the Ruby scripting language that lets you control Mac OS X applications. rb-appscript is a more powerful alternative to AppleScript, as it lets you use Ruby’s language features – and its libraries. Here’s the official introduction.

How do I install rb-appscript?

You check out Matt Neuberg’s detailed instructions.

You seem to duplicate the functionality of a lot of built-in commands. Whuffo?

It could be one of several reasons:

  • The command in question didn’t exist when I wrote the script.
  • I didn’t know it existed.
  • The script is ever-so-subtly different.
  • I have no idea what I’m doing.

  • What’s this all about then?

    rb-appscript is a powerful way to automate your Mac. It's similar to Applescript but it's built in Ruby, which means you get to leverage that language's powerful syntax and libraries. Giving you more time to make toasted sandwiches. You want long-winded explanations? We got those.

    Please note that these scripts are by no means bulletproof, and are intended to provide examples of application scripting. I take no resposibility for any loss of data or mishaps; you download and run everything at your own risk. That said, I use all of these scripts in a production environment every day (well – more accurately, I use some of these scripts in a production environment most days).